Cranberries are a small, red berry, with a rather tart flavor. The tend to be popular in dishes around the holiday season, but their benefits can extend all year. Loaded with antioxidants, these little berries have numerous potential benefits. In supplement form they tend to be dried and powdered, then either pressed into tablets or capsules.
Antioxidants
Cranberries are very high in antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage. Surprisingly they tend to be higher in antioxidants than many other more commonly consumed berries or fruits. The good news is the antioxidants in cranberries are preserved even in supplement form. Actually, because the cranberry powder is generally concentrated, it may in fact be more potent than fresh berries, or prepared foods like cranberry sauce.
Prevent Infections
There have been numerous studies on the effect of cranberry to prevent Urinary Tract Infections in women. It is believed that compounds within the cranberries prevent the bacteria from attaching itself to tissue, thereby not allowing it to spread and become an infection.
Reduce BPH Symptoms in Men
Studies have also demonstrated cranberry to have a positive effect on men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. One study concluded out of three groups; one given a placebo, one given a low dose of cranberry, and one given a higher dose of cranberry, the groups treated with cranberry had less lower urinary tract symptoms than the group given the placebo.
So these little red berries may pack a potent punch. Of course it's important to speak to a doctor before beginning any supplement. Here are a few of our best selling Cranberry supplements.
Mega Food Pure Cranberry
Nature's Way Cranberry Standardized
